Dusty Spence
Position: ISS Coordinator
School: Blacksburg High School
School District: Montgomery County Public Schools
City, State: Blacksburg, VA
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Dusty Spence was nominated anonymously.
"When you say the word 'Ms. Spence is the definition of LifeChanger'. She has taught all of my children over the years both in a private school, and as they have continued virtually in public school, and she has tutored them in college," said the nominator. "Over her decades of teaching in both the private and public sectors (both in person and virtually). She has changed the lives of so many students, parents, and future teachers she has mentored. She has taught every grade level over the years, as well as kids across every economic, emotional, and academic spectrum. She not only provides her students with information, but she gives them the belief that they can accomplish anything they are determined to work for. Ms. Spence attends after-school activities and sports events, visits homes, and is a partner and advocate for parents. She supports her Administration and is the first one to offer assistance to everyone around her. 'Not my job' is not in her vocabulary."
"Ms. Spence makes sure each child is remembered, loved, and included," said the nominator. "She has provided clothing, gifts, and meals, not only for her students, but their extended families. When her private school closed due to COVID-19, she was immediately sought after by different schools. She now taught children virtually across three different school divisions for grades K-8. She now is an integral part of her local high school. She provides a safe place for kids to receive additional one-on-one learning. Parents trust her. Kids adore her. Administration relies on her expertise and knowledge. Student teachers want to shadow and learn from her. She has provided before and after-school programs and summer programming. She makes learning fun, and her students are always active, learning, and involved with giving back to the community."
"Ms. Spence also loves her community," said the nominator. "She is very active in government and civic groups to promote learning and advancement. She has raised two of her own children who have excelled in their own educational endeavors and careers. She is considered a "mom" to all. Her high standards of learning, character, and morals are respected. She disciplines with love and believes in the hopes and dreams of each child, pushing them to give their best. She is a blessing to all who are lucky to know her. Students adore her, parents love and respect her, faculty appreciate her, and the administration is amazed by her dedication and abilities to teach all students while changing lives every day. She has continued to do this despite her own struggles with blood cancer and health issues over the last several years. She is a true LifeChanger!"
One of my children wants to add:
Ms. Spence is one of the most loved teachers at BHS. She provides a safe place for all students to learn, talk about problems, and help us to come up with a solution. She not only helped me to pass my classes, but she provided the guidance and help that I needed emotionally to make sound choices and gave me advice in every area of my life. She treats every student as if they are the most important person to her, but she holds us to high standards. She helps us with our classes but teaches at our own individual levels. She builds us up daily and most of the kids love to see her each day to check in. We love it when she is able to sub in our rooms (when she is available) or proctor testing. But she also gives tough love, and we hate when we have disappointed her...but she always treats it as a life lesson and she makes sure that we learn from it. She makes each student feel loved, and secure, and that each of us has the ability to conquer the world. Whether it’s tough love, or a shoulder to cry on, she is there.
She can teach any subject and has helped so many of us with extra tutoring or just teaching in small groups. She attends sporting events and extra-curricular school activities...you never know when she will show up. She is there for us 24/7. She always has a smile, a kind word, and a loving spirit and heart to everyone. She’s been teaching forever and I’ve had older family members that have had her as a teacher. She is one of the teachers that you remember for a lifetime, and she will remember you. My cousin had her as a teacher in kindergarten, and he sent her letters in college and invited her when he graduated with his Master's Degree. She is the one teacher that you don't forget. When you think of a LifeChanger, you think of her!
Everyday at BHS, Ms. Spence works with students who need continuous reminders or prompting. She organizes and monitors their work loads in a manner that has increased the amount of work that classroom teachers are receiving back from ISS. It's no longer a matter of missing assignments when students are assigned disciplinary action. Not only does she teach each subject in a manner that is equal to the assigned teacher, but she insures the work is completed and submitted. It's a relief to have her at BHS, she encompasses many responsibilities from testing, coordinating programs, and helping in administrative duties. The students respond to her in such a positive way and they actually ask for her help. Her experience and ability to nudge students forward has made a huge different to this student population. Honestly, ISS is now a meaningful place to work and learning lifelong lessons. Students regain composure and a different outlook on their future.
I've worked with Dusty in two different schools. She was my mentor as a new teacher, as well as my lead teacher when I was hired in a private school setting. Her administrative and teaching skills are amazing...probably the best I have seen. She also taught my own children and I've seen first hand how she adjusts to the learning needs of each child while holding each child accountable and responsible. She makes learning fun and kids just excel with her. I have also working in a public school setting with her. She is productive, determined, and experienced. She is just a wonderful person and an amazing teacher. She has high expectations but the kids rise to meet them. Teachers look up to her and her knowledge base is beyond compare..she just knows all the tricks of the trade and how to implement for results. I've been blessed to have learned from the best and she is very deserving of this honor!
I can honesty say with utmost confidence that Dusty is easy going, friendly, an dprofessional. She is a kind and caring individual that is always willing to help students and staff. I've learned that she faces many personal health issues daily, yet you would never know it by her pleasant demeanor. Her position at school can be very challenging and she always approaches it with a smile and a positive attitude. She is such a joy to be around and would be most deserving of the LifeChanger Award - she changes lives EVERY day!
Ms. Spence and I have worked together for several years. she has an excellent rapport with the students. She seeks to help them succeed academically. But, she also imparts wisdom in helping guide them to be successful. I hope Dusty wins this award. She is a great asset to any school. We are blessed.
I have known her since childhood. She has always been strong and tenacious, but over the last several years I have seen her tackle and conquer obstacles that would have killed a normal person. In spite of all this, she arrives first and is the last to leave. She arrives energetic with a smile on her face, ready to conquer the problems of the world. You never see her own struggles and her ability to adjust to circumstances far beyond her control and to calm students around her is a gift. Her dedication and love these kids have for her is her driving force. She is also a wonderful mom and a wonderful friend. Beyone that, all kids consider her a mom. I've seen her talk with parents, help strangers, and just be there to help lead and guide. She always comes up with a plan of action and is the calming force in the storm. She is an amazing woman who has dedicated years with a smile on her face and love in her heart with an unbreakable faith. She is most deserving of this award.
Ms. Spence is like a second mom to me. I think everyone should vote for her because she is an amazing person. She takes care of every problem I came to her with when I was at BHS. She does this in a way that calms you down. She cares and lovers her students and always brightens up the room with her lovely smile. She will drop her work and her own problems to help students. She makes sure that they are on the right track and in the right frame of mind before they leave her to become successful. She loves kids and helps them academically, and makes sure they are ok physically and mentally. She checks on them during and after school. If tutoring is needed, she is there before or after school, or even during her own lunch. If she sees someone upset or mad, she helps them calm down and find peace with their situation. She deserves this award and we deserve more teachers like her. She is the best.
Dusty is always at school with a pleasant attitude and outstanding work ethic. I appreciate her smiling through some of the toughest situations that arise in a school setting. Dusty takes into consideration a student's background and is always willing to listen and show empathy to students and teachers alike. She is loved by everyone at BHS and is a positive influence on everyone she encounters.
Ms. Spence has taught all four of my children in a private school setting. If I had the money, I would personally pay her to teach my children all their formative years and through college. She is that amazing and truly unforgettable. Years late, my kids still want to visit her, and she always has an open home for us. No one else will ever compare to her in way, ever! Also, a close friend, she gives the most sound advice for parenting, or any problem we experience. She is someone that has mentored me, and I strive to become more like her. I love her with everything in me and pray for her health, wealth, and safety on a daily basis. Phenonemal doesn't even tip what she is...give this woman this award!!!
Dusty is one of the kindest people I've ever met. She also has high standards and will address you when expectations are not met. The perfect storm of "sweet but don't mess with me". This earns her respect but also you know that you are loved and cared for. She is an a amazing teacher, but more...she guides the students. She helps them prepare, and want to be, a better person. She doesn't just set them up to fail. She is there to make sure they succeeed and she is their biggest cheerleader. She advocates for the students and the parents. She is a support system to everyone. No other is more deserving that this award than Dusty!
She is an amazing assett to BHS. She is appreciated by everyone and the students respect and love her. She has helped me many times to problem solve and take different approaches to teaching and student motivation. She is a wealth of knowledge.
Ms. Spence goes above and beyond for all of the students and expects the best for them, and the best from them. She is an amazing educator and person, who in the face of a challenging situation, finds the solution that is best for the individual student and implements it immediately. She is the person you want to lead in any good or bad situation. She is absolutely amazing and I have been blessed to work with her!
Ms. Dusty is an amazing teacher and person. My girls loved her as a teacher and I loved her too. She is a very kind and thoughtful person. She is very loved...and if she is seen in public, everyone talks to her!
Ms. Spence is one of the best teachers! My kids her many years ago in a summer program, and now at BHS. She takes her time for the students and parents. As a single parent, it is hard to stay on track and be 100% of everything our kids. She helps us stay on track with homework and is one of my "mentors" I look to as a parent. She is always there, reaches out to make sure we are all "ok" and how she can help. She will always be a fixture in our family. Once she is a teacher to your child, she is a teacher for life. She instills everything good into our kids and we are blessed! She must win this award this year...she has battled many things, and is still thriving!
Dusty is an amazing person. I've seen her handle so many situations, scenerios, and challenges with grace and leadership. The kids view her not only as a teacher, but a mentor and mom. Parents look to her as a confidant, friend, and trusted guide. Co-workers look to her for her experience and how to do this ever-changing, and difficult, job. Administrators look to her for her unique style and abilities. She is responsible and goes above and beyond what is asked. She brings this to the table to everyone, everyday....with a smile and a spirit that won't let anyone give up.
I've seen first hand how hard this woman works for her kids. She pours her heart, sweat, and tears into her kids (biological and others). I've seen her teach all day, go to after school activities, participate in search parties, and sit by hospital beds. I've seen her counsel students and parents that were at their breaking points. She has been there to tutor and comfort in ways that only she can. She is tough love, and has high expectations for everyone around her - yet she does this in such a kind and loving way that everyone wants to rise the challenge to succeed and do better. She turns kids around that have been labeled by society. She makes learning fun. She loves until the love turns to learning. I've seen her zoom from home, hold classes outside during COVID, go into homes to teach. I've seen her hold children while crying, or until they do...when noone else can break through...she does. A trip out to the store, or dinner out, will eventually end with kids or parents joining her. Once a child is in her class, they are her kids forever. She does all this while being a wonderful mom to her own kids, activing in the community and church, being a wonderful friend, and battling chronic cancer. This woman is a "LifeChanger" and I'm proud of her.
My daughter adores Ms. Spence. She was her first teacher in the COVID environment and we were learning remotely and virtually. She goes the extra mile to provide fun and educational activities for the kids of all ages. She was always there to help any way possible for a vast array of ages. Every school and summer program is blessed to have her leading the team.
Dusty is a great teacher. She pushed my kids to work hard, learn the basics, and they made great grades. She tutors, and makes the kids understand what is being taught. If they don't understand, she changes the approach to the child and doesn't make the kids feel bad. She not only teaches academics, but goes beyond the student to the person...citizenship, manners, etc. She teaches the entire spectrum and the kids want to do better because of her.
Congrats Dusty! This is a well deserved honor...our kids need more teachers like you, with your love and dedication. Success doesn't come from what you do occasionally, it comes from what you do consistently. You have done this consistently for many decades, and you only get better.
Her dedication to our young people is unmatched. In the classroom, and outside the classroom, she is treasured. She takes her love of the profession along with her love for children outside to the families. That is a rare quality in today's world. Each child who has had the privilige to be mentored, taught, guided, and loved by her is truly blessed. Some educators teach the curriculum, but she teaches the children!
She is not only the best teacher, but the best role model! She is definitely deserving of this award for her years of service, and all she has endured personally over the last several years. She will overcome every obstacle thrown her way. She is strong, and gives children what they need, day in and day out.
Dusty has continued to make a huge impact on both me and my son. As a single mom, I have had struggles. She has walked me thru issues, made contacts for resources for me, and got us the help that was needed. She helped my son come out of his shell, and thrive in different learning environments. She has built not only his mind, but his spirit. He loved having her a teacher. She goes above and beyond for students and parents. We all want her to win this award!
This is "my person". We originally met when I was a student teacher that she took under her wing. I was in a dark place in my life. I lived 5 hours away from my family and home. She was, and has continued to be "my rock", my mom (when away from my real mom), and just an all around miracle for me, just as she is to other new teachers, co-workers, and students. She is creative, devoted, and the most passionate teacher I've ever worked around. She makes me want to be a better teacher. This is nothing that can break her organizational methods, her spirit, or her love for students. You can't be shy with her-she will drag you out of your shell, make you want to talk, and make you want to come up with solutions and follow through, because she keeps everyone on track, accountable, all while being your biggest cheerleader and advocate. She continues to stay in touch with all the student teachers she has mentored and continues to be our go-to for advice.
I also know she keeps up with all of the kids she has taught. Go out with her...everyone comes to her, she is a magnet for people. She is a well-rounded, bubbly woman that nothing can stop. Moral of the story...she should be elected for this award. She is my LifeChanger, and I love "Momma D". <3
Ms. Spence dedicates so much of herself to ensuring the success of her students. During times of adversity is where she steps up and shines. She shows even more determination than ever! She always finds a way through it, and will bring others with her (sometimes kicking and screaming). She perfoms the job of so many people in one, with grace and knowledge. She should be applauded. We love Ms. Spence!
Dusty is not only an amazing teacher, but a wonderful friend. She has continuously overcome so many obstacles in the last several years that most people would have not even survived. She has faced each battle with grace, strength, and a spirit of being blessed (and sharing that blessing with others). Teaching and being a mentor to all those around her is her priority, regardless of what storm she is going through. She is very dedicated and puts her heart and soul into all that she sets out to do. She is a wonderful mom, friend, spiritual anchor, and a giver. This award could not go to a more deserving woman.
Dusty has devoted her professional life to children by teaching academics and modeling the way to care to others. She is well loved by her students because they know she cares for them. Building relationships with children is critical to being able to help them learn and grow. Dusty continues to bring those skills to her job every single day. As a teacher (and as one who actually taught Dusty's own children), she served and volunteered in every capacity possible. Her own children modeled her behavior by both pursuing academic carrers. She talks the talk, but more importantly, she walks the walk.
I have gotten to know Ms. Spence over the last few months. She does a tremendous job of stepping in and helping out in any way she can. She serves multiple roles at our school, she is our ISS coordinator and our AP coordinator. Ms. Spence is extremely organized and makes sure she stays on top of of what needs to be taken care of. Above all else Ms. Spence does a great job working with students. Working in schools it is vital that being able to work with students is a must. As an ISS coordinator, Ms. Spence does a great job of making sure her environment is structured but also a place that is inviting for students who know that they are with her to get work done but can go to her or help and support.
Dusty is one of the most dedicated teachers I have ever met. She goes above and beyond to give her students the best learning experience possible. These past few years she has suffered medical setbacks (including blood cancer) which would have made most just stay in bed and take disability. Her concern was not for herself, but for doing what she was called to do, and what was best for students. She is not your 8am-3pm teacher. I have seen her collect items to be of use in her classroom and school. She has raised money for students and families in distress. She has provided clothing, food, school supplies, and other items for students. I've seen her tutor kids, spend her nights and weekends, working around parent schedules. I've seen her at extracurricular activities. All of this above and beyond her own family (which is a full time job alone). Her energy is always high, her smile and personality is contagious, and she always finds the blessings around her.
Congratulations Ms. Dusty! You deserve this and more! You are awesome at you do. Me and my kids appreciate all you have done for us over the years. BHS is luck to have you there.
Dusty is one of the greatest influences a child could have in their life. As a young teacher, she guided and molded me to help me become the teacher I strive to be. She is a great role model for students and teachers alike. She is the teacher that all the kids come to just to say hello, and to update her on their lives. She's their biggest cheerleader and challenges them to be the best they can be. She will also dish out the tough love as needed but you will leave that conversation wanting to do better and make her proud. She keeps her standards high, but her love is never ending. She's dedicated to all the children she comes into contact with and has so much knowledge about teaching, behavior, needs, ... the list goes on. She is such a blessing as a friend, teacher, and mentor.
I have known Dusty for many years (both professionally and personally). I have always admired her passion for teaching and I have had wonderful comments brought to my attention from both kids and parents. She always goes above and beyond to make sure the needs of the children are met-both inside and outside the classroom. She cares for the well-being of the total child (academically, physically, emotional, and spiritual). I have admired her ability to adapt to the ever-changing world of education (in person and virtually) over the course of the last decade. There is a tireless energy that she builds in others. She is able to remain calm, focused, and dedicated to everyone, even when there is a unknown storm around...she calms both the mind in spirit in others. In a world that sees many people give "just enough", Dusty goes above and beyone as a teacher, a mom, a leader in the church, and as a leader in the community. She is worthy of recognition as a life changer. I believe this is because she gives selflessly and has a heart to see the others benefit grow!
I can think of no one more deserving of this honor. As my life-long friend, she has always been a beacon of light and positivity. She offers love, learning, and friendships to everyone. She is a mentor and wonderful teacher. Anyone that knows her, already knows she is a LifeChanger.
Ms. Spence has had a rough few years battling health issues that would sideline most people. She enjoys working with children and goes beyond to assist those struggling even when she is struggling herself physically. She is a positive and encouraging light to some of the troubled teens that she comes into contact with daily.
Even children she had taught in their kindergarten years remember and speak of her fondly as their favorite teacher. A grandmother related a story to me just a few weeks ago regarding her grandson love for "Ms. Dusty" that he came home when she picked him up from kindergarten talking about what a good teacher she was and what a fun day he had that day. He's now a teenager and still asks about her.
She is a very deserving recipient of this honor and is a dedicated educator.
While I don't have experience with Ms. Spence as a teacher, from the friend side I can vouch that "her kids" are what is on her heart at all times. They are what keeps her going. They are what she plans for, works for, prays over, and tries to act "tough" over with a proud smile on her face. She beams when talking about them.
The "extra mile" is the norm for Ms. Spence. Slowing down, letting up, doing less-- even amid personal physical issues--is not an option for her.
Whatever "her kids" need-- in ALL the myriad forms that can take-- she is there to provide for them.
And they come back year after year thanking her.
Those who know her, know she is deserving of this award.
